Ricci holds her own at Le Bistro Theatre

Joe Delaney

Friday, Feb. 1, 2002 | 8:58 a.m.

Marlene Ricci, not quite 5-foot-3, is a small woman with a big voice, superb song selection and great presence. She has come light years since her discovery by Frank Sinatra, her days as his opening act, and the 1978 CBS special "Cinderella at the Palace." She was very good then. Ricci can hold her own in person with the best female singing performers today.

Her Riviera show in LeBistro Theatre, capacity 150-175, augurs well for a long, successful run. A take-charge type, Ricci came out strong following a brief film segment, in a contemporary mode with special material, followed by "Love Can Move Mountains," and "Love, Dreams and Trust," the evening's theme.

Journey's "Open Arms" was enhanced by a lovely Sheila Arnold violin accompaniment. Acknowledging impressionist Bill Acosta's presence, Ricci did her one impression -- Connie Francis, singing "Where The Boys Are." Then it was the audience's turn to sing along to "Personality," followed by a heartfelt "I Only Have Eyes for You."

Dusty Springfield's "I Only Want to be with You" was next, part of a story sequence that included "Blue Bayou." "Great Balls of Fire" featured musical director Brian Tidwell on some Jerry Lee Lewis-type piano, keyboardist Dave Garland doubling on saxophone, and drummer Mike Meecham. Chris Davis was a constant presence on bass. "Old Time Rock 'n' Roll" ended that portion.

It was time for Broadway with a bravura version of "Somewhere" from "West Side Story." Arnold was again featured, this time soloing brilliantly on Bach's Toccata in D Minor. Ricci reappeared in a formal evening gown.

"There You'll Be" was sung in accompaniment to film clips from "Cinderella at the Palace." "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," was another vocal highlight, accompanied warmly by Dave Hart on acoustic guitar. Ricci went off for a third costume change while Hart soloed on "Classical Gas." It was back to Broadway musicals to close out the show.

"I Don't Know How to Love Him" ("Jesus Christ, Superstar"); an "Evita medley, including "Don't Cry for Me, Argentina"; and "Memory" from "Cats," garnered a well-deserved standing ovation. "God Bless the USA" was the encore. The standing ovation included this critic.